Festivalgoers at Rhythm and Vines in 2021. Photo: Supplied
MetService has issued a severe weather watch for the Wairoa District, with stormy weather expected to hit the region on Monday.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms were most likely in the afternoon and evening, the forecaster said.
The watch could be upgraded to a warning later.
It was in place for the area east of Lake Waikaremoana and Gisborne south of the city from 4pm Monday until 6pm Tuesday.
About 17,000 campers are currently in Gisborne for the Rhythm and Vines festival, which ends on New Year's Day.
The area has just been hit by a month's worth of rain and high winds on Boxing Day.
Just before 9am Monday, the MetService issued a severe thunderstorm watch for eight hours from 1pm for Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, Tararua, Wairarapa, Marlborough, and Nelson.
"These thunderstorms will generate localised downpours up to 50mm/hour, and possibly large hail (or significant accumulations of hail).
"Large hail can cause significant damage to crops, orchards, vines, glasshouses and vehicles."
It warned there could be flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas near streams, rivers or narrow valleys.
Potential flooding, slips and poor visibility would make driving conditions hazardous, MetService said.
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